While all eyes are on the upcoming Google Pixel 11 series launch on August 12, 2026, a fresh leak has unexpectedly revealed the codename of Google's next budget phone, the Pixel 11a.
Pixel 11a Codename Surfaces Online
Upon exploring version 230.0.946661649-publicbeta-pixel of the Phone by Google app, folks over at Android Authority found five internal codenames corresponding to the upcoming Google Pixel 11 series. One of the codenames could be related to Google's next mid-range smartphone, the Pixel 11a. Here are all the codenames that were spotted.
- Cubs - Pixel 11
- Grizzly - Pixel 11 Pro
- Kodiak - Pixel 11 Pro XL
- Yogi - Pixel 11 Pro Fold
- Formosan - ??
While the codenames of the Pixel 11 series are in line with the Pixel 11 codenames leaked aeons ago, there's a new fifth codename, "Formosan", which could be associated with the Pixel 11a.
Earlier this year, a report by Android Headlines had already revealed that the "Formosan" codename could be associated with the Pixel 11a. However, its sudden appearance inside Google's own first-party dialer gives us concrete evidence that the mid-range handset is actively in the pipeline.
While internal identifiers do not confirm the final retail plans or the hardware specifications of the Pixel 11a smartphone, they do outline Google's broader strategy. While the flagship Pixel 11 series launch is slated for August 12, 2026, buyers looking forward to buying the more affordable Pixel 11a might need to wait until next year.
Considering the Pixel 10a launched in March 2026, if Google follows its cadence, we could see the Pixel 11a launch around the same time. It's too soon to predict what the phone could look like or if it will borrow the same Pixel Glow feature from its elder siblings. However, more information should be revealed in the coming months, so stay tuned.
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